What You Actually Need to Earn When You Move to NYC in 2025

ResearchChadButBroke · 2026-01-12T18:59:11+00:00

Moving to NYC in 2025 requires careful financial planning. To live comfortably, expect to earn $70,000-$90,000 for a modest lifestyle, or over $100,000 for dining and entertainment. Key expenses include housing, food, and transportation, emphasizing the need for a realistic budget.

ResearchChadButBroke

2026-01-12 18:59:11

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Thinking about making the leap to New York City? The dream of becoming a true New Yorker comes with a price tag that’s worth understanding before you make the move. While the famous saying claims “if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere,” the reality is that making it in NYC in 2025 requires serious financial planning.

How Much Do You Really Need to Earn?

The bottom line: to move to NYC and live without financial stress, you’ll need between $70,000 and $90,000 annually if you’re comfortable with a modest lifestyle—think studio apartment or roommate situation. If your vision includes dining out regularly, catching Broadway shows, and having your own place, bump that figure up to over $100,000 per year.

These numbers cover the essentials: housing, groceries, utilities, and transportation. Medical costs and frequent entertainment are separate considerations that could push your needs higher.

Breaking Down Your Monthly Expenses

Housing Dominates the Budget

Housing is your biggest expense when you move to NYC. A one-bedroom apartment runs around $2,367 monthly, while two-bedroom units average $2,496—though premium locations can hit $8,000+. If you’re considering buying rather than renting, expect to invest $2-3.5 million for a 1,500 square-foot Manhattan apartment, plus $5,000-$10,000 monthly in property taxes, insurance, and maintenance.

Food and Dining

Groceries average $400-$500 per month. Restaurant dining varies wildly: casual spots run $12-$30 per person, while mid-range establishments charge $50+ per person for a meal and drink.

Utilities and Internet

Plan for $150-$200 monthly for water, heat, electricity, and garbage. Internet adds another $50-$100, and if your building has a doorman service, expect similar costs.

Getting Around

Skip car ownership unless you enjoy paying $500-$1,800 monthly for parking, insurance, and gas—plus moving your car for street cleaning. Instead, grab an MTA monthly metro card: $34 for seven days or $132 for 30 days of unlimited travel.

The Reality of Living in NYC

Before you move to NYC, recognize that lifestyle choices matter. A modest, disciplined approach with roommates and careful spending can work on $70,000-$90,000. Want independence and regular entertainment? You’re looking at six figures. The key is honest assessment: what does your NYC dream actually require, and what can you realistically earn?

The good news? It’s entirely possible to build a fulfilling life here—just go in with clear eyes and a realistic budget.

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